Do you have Questions about Maine Families?

By TEEN & YOUNG PARENT PROGRAM | Jan 21, 2014

What is Maine Families?Maine Families is a home visiting program that provides parenting education and is available to families statewide. Parent Education Professionals, also known as home visitors, are trained and certified using the (PAT) Parents as Teachers™ curriculum, which is an internationally recognized program. Their mission is to, "provide the information, support and encouragement parents need to help their child develop optimally during the crucial years of life."

Who works for Maine Families?Every home visitor has at least a bachelor's degree in areas like early childhood development, early education, social work or psychology. Home visitors participate in a number of hours of professional development every year, along with weekly reflective supervision and monthly clinical supervision. Parent Education Professionals partner with approximately 25 families at any given time. Visits are typically once a month and last for about an hour. Depending on the needs of a family, visits can happen as often as once a week.

Where is Maine Families? There are 12 offices that cover all 16 of Maine's counties. Home visits generally take place in the family's home, but in some cases visits may be in different places. For example, the office for Maine Families of Knox, Lincoln and Sagadahoc counties is on Park Street in Rockland, and has a playroom where families are welcome to schedule their visits.

Why Maine Families?Parents are their child's first and most important teacher. The PAT curriculum focuses on family strengths to shape and support their child's growth. Babies don't come with a handbook, but in Adrienne Randall's opinion, "Home visiting is the next best thing." Building a strong foundation is essential so every child can have the best possible start and the chance at a successful future. All parents want what is best for their child, regardless of the family's income, age or educational attainment.

When to enroll with Maine Families?Enrollment takes place prenatally and up until the baby turns 3 months old. There are no age restrictions, income guidelines or education requirements so every family is welcome. Parents range in age from 14 - 47.

If you or someone you know is pregnant or has a newborn at home and would like information about the Teen and Young Parent Program or Maine Families, please call 207.594.1980 or toll-free within Maine at 877.972.5804. The Teen and Young Parent Program and Maine Families of Knox, Lincoln and Sagadahoc counties are proud to be affiliated with the University of Maine Cooperative Extension. In complying with the letter and spirit of applicable laws and in pursuing its own goals of diversity, the University of Maine System shall not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation - including transgender status and gender expression - national origin, citizenship status, age, disability, or veterans' status in employment, education and all other areas of the University. The University provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.